Cold Therapy

image of an ice pack.

Applying ice after an injury is a common method for reducing pain and swelling. It is especially effective for athletes, who often experience sudden, painful injuries. This type of cold therapy, also known as cryotherapy, is used by chiropractors for the same purposes.

Types of Cold Therapy

Many types of cold therapy are available to reduce pain and swelling after an injury, including the use of:

  • Ice packs
  • Ice massage
  • Slush bucket (half water, half crushed ice)
  • Whirlpool with ice water
  • Cold wet towels

Benefits of Cold Therapy

Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow, which reduces the flow of blood into an area. As a result, cold therapy:

  • Reduces swelling and pain after injury
  • Slows movement of fluid into tissues
  • Reduces the amount of chemicals that cause inflammation in injured tissue
  • Reduces bleeding
  • Slows the movement of pain signals from nerves
  • Decreases muscle spasms by reducing the contraction of muscles

Cold therapy may also keep cells in the injured area from dying due to the lack of oxygen. This is because an injury can reduce blood flow — and oxygen — to the area. However, cold therapy slows the activity of cells, which reduces how much oxygen they need to stay alive.

Tips for Best Cold Therapy

For cold therapy to work, cold packs should be applied as soon as possible. Pain and inflammation are common within 72 hours after an injury.

To avoid frostbite, cold packs should be applied for only 10 minutes at a time, with breaks of at least an hour in between. The ice can be applied several times a day, for three or four days after an injury — or as directed by your chiropractor.

Also, cold packs should never be applied directly to the skin. Instead, a towel should be placed between the skin and cold pack.

Cold therapy may not be appropriate for everyone. Some people respond to cold temperatures by breaking out in hives or developing pain in the joints.

If you have questions about cold therapy or think you might benefit from this type of treatment, please contact our office to schedule an appointment and receive more information.

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Office Hours

Saturdays are by appointment only

Lawrenceville Office

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

6:00 am-8:00 pm

Thursday:

6:00 am-8:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-7:00 pm

Saturday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "Amazing!

    Dr. Meanor is a lifesaver! I have had several car accidents, hit the broad side and hurt my neck. I have been living with pain for years! Thanks to her, she has worked on my neck and reduced the stress and lessened the pain. I won't go to anyone else! And, all this without meds, which I appreciate.

    You will love her!!!"
    Linda A.
  • "Worth the extra travel

    Dr. Meanor has been so helpful that I followed her from one practice to another. Despite having to drive a distance, the relief I get from my adjustments makes it worth the trip. She has been able to bring relief to areas that other chiropractors have been unable to do. I highly recommend her!"
    Michelle C.
  • "Quick and Effective

    Dr. Sarah Meanor is an extremely talented chiropractor. I injured my shoulder weight-lifting years ago, and I have seen one other chiropractor who was able to relieve my pain, but only very temporarily; I would have to see him every two weeks. However, Sarah adjusted my shoulder in three visits, and the results seem permanent - 6 months and counting. It is amazing - I have had no pain since!"
    Richard O.